When to Plant Tomatoes in Eastern North Carolina

Tomatoes are one of the most popular garden vegetables in America. They’re great for salads, sauces, and sandwiches, and they’re easy to grow. But when is the best time to plant tomatoes in eastern North Carolina?

Climate in Eastern North Carolina

Before we get into when to plant tomatoes in eastern North Carolina, let’s take a look at the climate. Eastern North Carolina has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and mild winters. The growing season is long, lasting from mid-March until late November. The warm, humid weather provides the perfect conditions for growing tomatoes.

When to Plant Tomato Seeds in Eastern North Carolina

If you’re starting your tomatoes from seed, you’ll want to start them indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. In eastern North Carolina, the last expected frost date is typically around April 15th. This means you should start your tomato seeds indoors in late February or early March. Once the seedlings have grown to be about 6 inches tall, you can transplant them into the garden.

When to Plant Tomato Transplants in Eastern North Carolina

If you’re using tomato transplants, you’ll want to wait until after the last frost date to plant them in your garden. This is typically around April 15th in eastern North Carolina. It’s important to keep an eye on the weather, though, because a late frost can damage or kill your plants. If you’re unsure, it’s better to wait until the soil has warmed up and the chance of frost has passed.

Choosing the Right Tomato Variety

When choosing which tomato variety to plant in eastern North Carolina, it’s important to choose one that’s adapted to your local climate. Some good options include Early Girl, Celebrity, and Better Boy. These varieties are all heat-tolerant and disease-resistant, making them ideal for growing in eastern North Carolina.

Planting and Caring for Your Tomatoes

When planting your tomatoes, make sure to choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Tomatoes need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day, so pick a spot that gets plenty of sunshine. Dig a hole that’s slightly larger than the root ball of your transplant, and plant the tomato deep enough so that the lowest leaves are just above the soil line. This will encourage the plant to develop a strong root system.

Once your tomatoes are planted, water them well and keep the soil moist but not saturated. Fertilize them every 3-4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer, and mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Watch out for pests and diseases, and treat them promptly if necessary.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

In eastern North Carolina, you can expect to start harvesting your tomatoes in early June. Just make sure to pick them when they’re fully ripe and red for the best flavor. You can store them at room temperature for a few days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a delicious and easy-to-grow vegetable that thrive in the warm, humid climate of eastern North Carolina. Whether you’re starting them from seed or using transplants, make sure to plant them after the last frost date and choose a variety that’s adapted to your local climate. Caring for your tomatoes is simple, and with a little bit of attention, you’ll be enjoying a bountiful crop all summer long.